If approved by Congress, 5,148 "ready-to-go" highway and transportation projects would create about 1.8 million new jobs nationwide, according to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).
The projects, costing a combined $64 billion, include highway and bridge, mass transit, rail, water and aviation improvement projects that could all be under contract within 180 days of funding approval.
"Right now, 41 states are facing budget shortfalls and many of our state departments of transportation have had no choice but to delay critical projects that will fill potholes, enhance safety, and extend the lifespan of the nation's aging bridges," said AASHTO Executive Director John Horsley in a press release. "This survey shows that state DOTs are ready to quickly put the economic stimulus dollars and people to work."
According to the Federal Highway Administration, every $1.25 billion of taxpayer money invested in transportation projects supports about 35,000 jobs.
Over the weekend, President-elect Obama said America needs an economic recovery plan that will create 2.5 million jobs. We also know that America's aging transportation infrastructure is crumbling right along with the economy. AASHTO’s 1.8 million jobs on 5,148 highway projects might be a great way to start fixing both.
Also See:
What America Needs to Fix Now
Congressional Band-Aid: Form An Infrastructure Commission (US Politics)
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